Just got back a few days ago from a trip to Shanghai where I participated in the Shanghai International Literary Festival. I co-presented a session with Craig Silvey, a true artist and all-round good guy. His novel,
Jasper Jones, has garnered gobs of recognition in Australia; Knopf bought the North American rights and it's going to be released here in a few weeks. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
During our co-presentation, it was great to chat with him. Us writers can recognize that
something in one another: an enthusiasm about the craft, a respect for the art, how writing can be such a blessing (but also a curse at times). You can listen to our presentation
here.
Craig and I also share something else in common - the same agent, Catherine Drayton! It's a small world, after all. Craig and I could not stop talking about Catherine, about what an uber agent she is.
Last, check out this TimeOut Shanghai story on me and a great review of Silvey's novel
here.